In 2021, the Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) tasked the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) with examining the use of lead in ammunition. After extensive public consultations and direct communication, the HSE has now issued its ‘Final Opinion,’ a significant document outlining proposed restrictions on the use of lead ammunition in Great Britain.
The Final Opinion has been presented to the Secretary of State for DEFRA, who now has three months to act. The likely next step is drafting a statutory instrument to bring the proposals before Parliament. If no objections are raised—typically the case—this would proceed into law.
The full opinion and supporting documents span over 500 pages, and while the finer details are being reviewed, the headline points include:
Key recommendations
Lead shot
- The use of lead shot for live quarry and target shooting would be prohibited.
- A derogation would allow competitive athletes on British Shooting’s list to continue using lead shot for international competition and training.
- The placing on the market of lead shot for target shooting would be prohibited, except for supply to competitive athletes.
- A five-year transition period is proposed for these restrictions—a timeline strongly supported by the Gun Trade Association (GTA).
Lead bullets
- Large-Calibre Bullets (≥6.17 mm): Use for live quarry shooting would be prohibited, with a three-year transition period.
- Market restrictions would apply, and large-calibre bullets for target shooting must carry a label indicating they are not to be used for live quarry shooting.
- Small-Calibre Bullets (<6.17 mm): Use for live quarry shooting and their sale would not be restricted—an outcome heavily advocated by the GTA.
- Outdoor Target Shooting: The use of lead bullets (all calibres) would be prohibited unless ranges can demonstrate appropriate environmental controls, such as de-leading. A two-year transition period would allow time for compliance.
- The placing on the market of lead bullets for outdoor target shooting would remain permitted.
Air weapons
- The use of lead ammunition in air weapons would not be restricted, nor would its sale—an outcome described as a significant success for the industry.
Simon West, executive director of the GTA, highlighted the role of industry advocacy in shaping the Final Opinion:
“While we have never wanted or argued for any restriction, this opinion has been influenced from its original position with the benefit of GTA advice and evidence—especially on the realistic timescales needed to avoid damage to the industry. Thank you to the cartridge manufacturers and others for their support in producing the evidence required for us to be able to represent the Trade’s interests,
“The Secretary of State can make justified changes,” West added. “but, after so much consultation, I doubt if this will occur. I will continue to dig into the detail and watch the DEFRA process. More to follow!”
Next steps
The GTA will closely monitor developments as the Secretary of State considers the proposals and Parliament reviews the statutory instrument. While restrictions are never welcome, the GTA’s efforts have ensured the trade’s voice has been heard, securing critical concessions and workable timelines for the industry.
You can read the full January 2025 issue below:
